Coach didn't give Brady the ball in OT? Something sounds fishy, but hey its the Pat's!

If we hang 30 on Cleveland and win my question is, Why didn't you do this last week? We have won nothing with this so called high powered offense over the last 4 years. Give me a great Defense and average offense. We won two super bowls with slow Hines Ward and Nate Washington, but what a defense Porter, Polamalu, Hampton, farrier, Taylor etc..

— Posted by Toddler10-21

+1...You would think any coach would want the ball first in OT with the Wolverine behind center.....? SMH at that one.

Captain America (#59) missed 3 games due to concussion protocol and still leads the Panthers in hits, topped 100 tackles for the 4th consecutive season....that's why he's the best in the game. Luke is a tackling machine. Glad to see the Redskins make it back to the playoffs.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

Who saw Kirk ("You like that!!!") Cousins leading the 'Skins into the playoffs??

The Panthers got pretty beat up in their first game against Atlanta. The 38-0 score was deceptive in that seven Panthers got dinged up in that one, and although Benwikere is the only Panther done for the year as a result, that game took a toll on the Panthers, and it showed in Sunday's game. Rivera can deny it, but the Norman/OBJ drama was a distraction in their preparation for the Falcons game. And it's tough to beat a team twice in two weeks. They're definitely missing Stewart in the running game, and Olsen isn't 100%. Cam is taking a beating as well, and Fozzy got injured Sunday. So many players are getting injured and teams are depleted as a result. I don't like the four pre-season games because it's just too much for a body to take, but those games mean $$$, so they're likely to remain a part of the schedule.

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

I don't think too many saw the 'Skins making the playoffs. I know I didn't. Cousins has been playing some great football and seems to be flying under the radar. He's completing 70% of his passes (insane) and will top 4000 yards against Dallas. He's thrown 26 TDs versus 11 picks, most of which came earlier in the season, and has a rating of 99. 'Skins need to offer Captain Kirk a nice big contract....he deserves it.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

Agree about Cousins - he was left for dead and recycled by the Skins - win/win unless you're RG3. Can't help but feel bad for RG3, even with his rep as having attitude issues. Hope some team that will utilize his skills picks him up.

The coaching carousel has already started with Chip Kelly getting his walking papers before "Black Monday". I see the Panthers losing some good coordinators to HC vacancies.

Off topic, but very disappointing showing by the Heels last night. Their D (or lack thereof) looked like it did a year ago. Hate to see them end the season with two losses, giving up big yardage in each one.

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

I was surprised to see the Eagles let Kelly go. Thought he would get another year.

Tough way to end the season for the Heels, Gunny. The UNC D had some serious problems with Baylor's running game. Saw where one of the UNC players said they hadn't seen that kind of speed. Plus, they had the fumble in the end zone that didn't help. Was a very entertaining game with all the scoring. Nice season and something to build on.

Coach didn't give Brady the ball in OT? Something sounds fishy, but hey its the Pat's!

If we hang 30 on Cleveland and win my question is, Why didn't you do this last week? We have won nothing with this so called high powered offense over the last 4 years. Give me a great Defense and average offense. We won two super bowls with slow Hines Ward and Nate Washington, but what a defense Porter, Polamalu, Hampton, farrier, Taylor etc..

Captain America (#59) missed 3 games due to concussion protocol and still leads the Panthers in hits, topped 100 tackles for the 4th consecutive season....that's why he's the best in the game. Luke is a tackling machine. Glad to see the Redskins make it back to the playoffs.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

Who saw Kirk ("You like that!!!") Cousins leading the 'Skins into the playoffs??

The Panthers got pretty beat up in their first game against Atlanta. The 38-0 score was deceptive in that seven Panthers got dinged up in that one, and although Benwikere is the only Panther done for the year as a result, that game took a toll on the Panthers, and it showed in Sunday's game. Rivera can deny it, but the Norman/OBJ drama was a distraction in their preparation for the Falcons game. And it's tough to beat a team twice in two weeks. They're definitely missing Stewart in the running game, and Olsen isn't 100%. Cam is taking a beating as well, and Fozzy got injured Sunday. So many players are getting injured and teams are depleted as a result. I don't like the four pre-season games because it's just too much for a body to take, but those games mean $$$, so they're likely to remain a part of the schedule.

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

I don't think too many saw the 'Skins making the playoffs. I know I didn't. Cousins has been playing some great football and seems to be flying under the radar. He's completing 70% of his passes (insane) and will top 4000 yards against Dallas. He's thrown 26 TDs versus 11 picks, most of which came earlier in the season, and has a rating of 99. 'Skins need to offer Captain Kirk a nice big contract....he deserves it.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

Agree about Cousins - he was left for dead and recycled by the Skins - win/win unless you're RG3. Can't help but feel bad for RG3, even with his rep as having attitude issues. Hope some team that will utilize his skills picks him up.

The coaching carousel has already started with Chip Kelly getting his walking papers before "Black Monday". I see the Panthers losing some good coordinators to HC vacancies.

Off topic, but very disappointing showing by the Heels last night. Their D (or lack thereof) looked like it did a year ago. Hate to see them end the season with two losses, giving up big yardage in each one.

#59 is the best in the business. Congrats to the Skins. Wonder how RG All About me feels about it? I hate needing someone to lose to get in. What ever happened to win your games and you're in? The 4-10 Ravens? Coach didn't have them ready and Ben 2 picks and should have been 3. Now the 3-12 Browns. Glad I'm not a betting man.

— Posted by Toddler10-21

RG3 will land somewhere but he's done in DC. When a guy like 'Skins great Darrell Green comes out and questions your ability to lead, people listen.

It doesn't look good for the Steelers, T. The Jets should beat the Bills but anything is possible.

Captain America (#59) missed 3 games due to concussion protocol and still leads the Panthers in hits, topped 100 tackles for the 4th consecutive season....that's why he's the best in the game. Luke is a tackling machine. Glad to see the Redskins make it back to the playoffs.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

Who saw Kirk ("You like that!!!") Cousins leading the 'Skins into the playoffs??

The Panthers got pretty beat up in their first game against Atlanta. The 38-0 score was deceptive in that seven Panthers got dinged up in that one, and although Benwikere is the only Panther done for the year as a result, that game took a toll on the Panthers, and it showed in Sunday's game. Rivera can deny it, but the Norman/OBJ drama was a distraction in their preparation for the Falcons game. And it's tough to beat a team twice in two weeks. They're definitely missing Stewart in the running game, and Olsen isn't 100%. Cam is taking a beating as well, and Fozzy got injured Sunday. So many players are getting injured and teams are depleted as a result. I don't like the four pre-season games because it's just too much for a body to take, but those games mean $$$, so they're likely to remain a part of the schedule.

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

I don't think too many saw the 'Skins making the playoffs. I know I didn't. Cousins has been playing some great football and seems to be flying under the radar. He's completing 70% of his passes (insane) and will top 4000 yards against Dallas. He's thrown 26 TDs versus 11 picks, most of which came earlier in the season, and has a rating of 99. 'Skins need to offer Captain Kirk a nice big contract....he deserves it.

The Falcons' reaction to beating the Panthers was validation of the Panthers greatness.

How many times have you seen Cam Newton mock another player with his dancing? The only time I can think of is when that LB from Tennessee, who had mocked Cam earlier in the game, tried to disrupt his TD celebration. There are more people who know what the Dab is, because of Cam, than they know who the Atlanta Falcons are.

What about that guy O'Brien Schofield, who was "Dabbing all in their faces", and his reply to Charles Johnson's inquiry into who he was? His response was that he's a SB champion? From the looks of it, he was just along for the ride - 7 total tackles and 1 sack in the regular season and 1 tackle in that blowout SB win.

If the Flacons beat the Saints this weekend, Carolina will have played just as many games against above .500 teams as Arizona. The '72 dolphins only played against 1 in the regular season and that team didn't make the playoffs.

...Just in case anyone needs some pertinent facts when dealing with the ignorant and obnoxious "Panthers are the worst "whatever" team ever" people.

#59 is the best in the business. Congrats to the Skins. Wonder how RG All About me feels about it? I hate needing someone to lose to get in. What ever happened to win your games and you're in? The 4-10 Ravens? Coach didn't have them ready and Ben 2 picks and should have been 3. Now the 3-12 Browns. Glad I'm not a betting man.

Captain America (#59) missed 3 games due to concussion protocol and still leads the Panthers in hits, topped 100 tackles for the 4th consecutive season....that's why he's the best in the game. Luke is a tackling machine. Glad to see the Redskins make it back to the playoffs.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

Who saw Kirk ("You like that!!!") Cousins leading the 'Skins into the playoffs??

The Panthers got pretty beat up in their first game against Atlanta. The 38-0 score was deceptive in that seven Panthers got dinged up in that one, and although Benwikere is the only Panther done for the year as a result, that game took a toll on the Panthers, and it showed in Sunday's game. Rivera can deny it, but the Norman/OBJ drama was a distraction in their preparation for the Falcons game. And it's tough to beat a team twice in two weeks. They're definitely missing Stewart in the running game, and Olsen isn't 100%. Cam is taking a beating as well, and Fozzy got injured Sunday. So many players are getting injured and teams are depleted as a result. I don't like the four pre-season games because it's just too much for a body to take, but those games mean $$$, so they're likely to remain a part of the schedule.

Captain America (#59) missed 3 games due to concussion protocol and still leads the Panthers in hits, topped 100 tackles for the 4th consecutive season....that's why he's the best in the game. Luke is a tackling machine. Glad to see the Redskins make it back to the playoffs.

Thanks, B - always enjoy reading the stats you publish here; it puts things in perspective, but that loss still stings, and now the Panthers have pressure to win the last game. Glad it's a home game for them.

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

One of my fav. things to do is to look at player stats. They don't tell the whole story but they can tell you a lot. Baseball is such a numbers/percentages driven game that it rubbed off on me over time, and I get into the stats thing because of it, no matter the sport.

Agree with ya 100%, Gunny! It was a tough, disappointing loss with a lot on the line. There will be some serious pressure on 'em against TB, but I'll be surprised if they don't bounce back. They are still playing for a lot so there should not be any focus issues. I do wonder about their injury situation...? They seemed a little sluggish against ATL......?

Thanks, B - always enjoy reading the stats you publish here; it puts things in perspective, but that loss still stings, and now the Panthers have pressure to win the last game. Glad it's a home game for them.

Josh Norman didn't have a good game. He did not appear to be his usual trash talking, cocky self.....obvious reasons. They need Norman to play like Norman heading into the playoffs. Not the guy we saw against the Giants, but the player who can get into the heads of opponents w/o the brawling stuff and the unsportsmanlike flags. He seemed a lot 'friendlier' against the Falcons, which was to be expected following the Giants game. He needs to play his game going forward, just avoid crossing a certain line - find that balance again. #2 to #11 worked all day...one of those games. They should TCB against the Bucs.

I'm not gonna lie: this loss hurts. A lot. I hate that they lost to the Dirty Birds. In a way, they ran out of rabbits to pull out of their hat - no miracle comeback, no clutch play by Cam to save their rear ends. I don't care about them being perfect - today's game was all about having home field advantage for the entire NFC playoffs. I was hoping Green Bay would help Carolina out by beating Arizona, but no such luck. Gotta give those Cards credit.

Having a rejuvenated J. Stewart back in the lineup makes them a much better team than they've been these last 2 games, but Arizona still looks like the SB favorites right now. I know they handled GB today, but it'll be interesting to see how the absence of The Honey Badger will affect them in the playoffs. And, you know ((I)) don't think Cam will have another game like this either.

Having a rejuvenated J. Stewart back in the lineup makes them a much better team than they've been these last 2 games, but Arizona looks like SB favorites right now. And, you know ((I)) don't think Cam will have another game like this either. I know they handled GB today, but it'll be interesting to see how the absence of The Honey Badger will affect them in the playoffs.

Gotta like Cam's take after the game. He said, "We got our aces beat"....haha

I like it when a player tells it like it is. It happens! They had one heck of a run. This could be a good thing as they get ready for the playoffs. Lot more pressure chasing perfection and hard to do. The goal is to win the SB...not be 'perfect'. The Panthers should be fine.....time for a new streak.

This is a very special Panthers team, this kind of chemistry is rare, so I'm really hoping it's their year to win it all. I don't think we'll see the same roster next year due to free agency and Kalil and Davis aren't getting any younger.

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

Yeah not to mention the offensive coordinator Mike Shula and defensive coordinator Sean McDermott names are already been tossed around as hot commodities for whatever coaching jobs open up I think after this season the panthers may lose some of the cohesion they have had for the past years.

I hope the panthers win it all this year too so everyone that leaves can leave on a high note.

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Yes - so true about the OC and DC! I hate the thought of them leaving, but with so many teams doing poorly, you know they'll be going after the Panthers' coaches. McDermott has already said he'd love to be a HC. The price of success, I guess. In line with that, I'm glad that the Heels have managed to keep Fedora and Chizik (at least for now!)

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

I hate the thought of them leaving too but it will be a great opportunity for them if they do decide to become head coaches. I will still root for them to do well as long as they aren't going up against the panthers.

Chizik is a great coach and I don't know why Auburn got rid of him just two years after he won a national championship. But I guess it worked out for the Heels because their defense definitely took a big step forward when he became the DC.

— Posted by carolinadreaming

@ Auburn letting Chizik go: I read/heard it was NCAA violations. UNC's decision to hire him was questioned due to their own issues regarding NCAA violations, and the hire was considered very questionable. Chizik turned out to be a fantastic hire for the Heels!

Keeping my fingers crossed the Panthers beat the Dirty Birds. I'm afraid Atlanta will be out for blood (literally) and out to injure as they were the last game two weeks ago.

I can't believe this is going to be Thomas Davis first pro bowl I'm happy for him. It seems like he has played at a high level for so long it's good that he is finally getting the recognition that he deserves.

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Agree about Thomas Davis! So deserving of the invite to the Pro Bowl.

This is a very special Panthers team, this kind of chemistry is rare, so I'm really hoping it's their year to win it all. I don't think we'll see the same roster next year due to free agency and Kalil and Davis aren't getting any younger.

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

Yeah not to mention the offensive coordinator Mike Shula and defensive coordinator Sean McDermott names are already been tossed around as hot commodities for whatever coaching jobs open up I think after this season the panthers may lose some of the cohesion they have had for the past years.

I hope the panthers win it all this year too so everyone that leaves can leave on a high note.

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Yes - so true about the OC and DC! I hate the thought of them leaving, but with so many teams doing poorly, you know they'll be going after the Panthers' coaches. McDermott has already said he'd love to be a HC. The price of success, I guess. In line with that, I'm glad that the Heels have managed to keep Fedora and Chizik (at least for now!)

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

I hate the thought of them leaving too but it will be a great opportunity for them if they do decide to become head coaches. I will still root for them to do well as long as they aren't going up against the panthers.

Chizik is a great coach and I don't know why Auburn got rid of him just two years after he won a national championship. But I guess it worked out for the Heels because their defense definitely took a big step forward when he became the DC.

Some positive news - congrats to the 10 Panthers who made the Pro Bowl, especially the first-timers.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

I can't believe this is going to be Thomas Davis first pro bowl I'm happy for him. It seems like he has played at a high level for so long it's good that he is finally getting the recognition that he deserves.

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Agree about Thomas Davis! So deserving of the invite to the Pro Bowl.

This is a very special Panthers team, this kind of chemistry is rare, so I'm really hoping it's their year to win it all. I don't think we'll see the same roster next year due to free agency and Kalil and Davis aren't getting any younger.

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

Yeah not to mention the offensive coordinator Mike Shula and defensive coordinator Sean McDermott names are already been tossed around as hot commodities for whatever coaching jobs open up I think after this season the panthers may lose some of the cohesion they have had for the past years.

I hope the panthers win it all this year too so everyone that leaves can leave on a high note.

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Yes - so true about the OC and DC! I hate the thought of them leaving, but with so many teams doing poorly, you know they'll be going after the Panthers' coaches. McDermott has already said he'd love to be a HC. The price of success, I guess. In line with that, I'm glad that the Heels have managed to keep Fedora and Chizik (at least for now!)

Some positive news - congrats to the 10 Panthers who made the Pro Bowl, especially the first-timers.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

I can't believe this is going to be Thomas Davis first pro bowl I'm happy for him. It seems like he has played at a high level for so long it's good that he is finally getting the recognition that he deserves.

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Agree about Thomas Davis! So deserving of the invite to the Pro Bowl.

This is a very special Panthers team, this kind of chemistry is rare, so I'm really hoping it's their year to win it all. I don't think we'll see the same roster next year due to free agency and Kalil and Davis aren't getting any younger.

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

Yeah not to mention the offensive coordinator Mike Shula and defensive coordinator Sean McDermott names are already been tossed around as hot commodities for whatever coaching jobs open up I think after this season the panthers may lose some of the cohesion they have had for the past years.

I hope the panthers win it all this year too so everyone that leaves can leave on a high note.

Some positive news - congrats to the 10 Panthers who made the Pro Bowl, especially the first-timers.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

Yes! Getting 10 players in the Pro Bowl is terrific. I hope none go, though, due to the Panthers playing in the SB the following week!

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

That would be nice, Gunny. Hope they get 'em a ring. Given the season they've had, they deserve it.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

+1!

Drama aside, this really is a special team. Cam has really matured and developed his skills and become a good teammate. Players like Olsen, Kuechly, Davis, Harper, Cotchery, and well, you get the picture, are a great group of guys with remarkable chemistry. Beating teams like Seattle and Arizona make the road to the SB a tough one. Then they may have to face Brady if they make it to the SB. Would love to see 'em avenge their loss to the Pats in their last SB appearance.

Best wishes to you and your family for a very Merry Christmas, B. So glad we have this forum to discuss real sports. I may sneak in some Carolina stuff here in the future. The State/Carolina/Duke forums are a mess.

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

Well said, Gunny! The 2015 version of the Panthers is definitely a very special group of players. Cam wasn't playing all that well early but making the plays when he had to. He turned it on down the stretch, got hot, and will likely be MVP. Very good point about their team chemistry. The playoffs are always tough but if they win it, they will have earned it. The Norman thing was a minor bump in the road that has likely been addressed behind closed doors at this point.

Patriots/Brady - as the Nature Boy used to say, "To be the Man, you gotta beat the Man", and Brady is the man, and the best ever, imo. Montana is in the discussion but Brady's career is off the charts.

The Heels will be fine if they can stay healthy. Injuries can be one big pain in the backside. With that said, it's UNC hoops...they usually find a way to get it done.

Always a pleasure, Gunny, and wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Some positive news - congrats to the 10 Panthers who made the Pro Bowl, especially the first-timers.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

Yes! Getting 10 players in the Pro Bowl is terrific. I hope none go, though, due to the Panthers playing in the SB the following week!

— Posted by Jeanne Gunn

That would be nice, Gunny. Hope they get 'em a ring. Given the season they've had, they deserve it.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

+1!

Drama aside, this really is a special team. Cam has really matured and developed his skills and become a good teammate. Players like Olsen, Kuechly, Davis, Harper, Cotchery, and well, you get the picture, are a great group of guys with remarkable chemistry. Beating teams like Seattle and Arizona make the road to the SB a tough one. Then they may have to face Brady if they make it to the SB. Would love to see 'em avenge their loss to the Pats in their last SB appearance.

Best wishes to you and your family for a very Merry Christmas, B. So glad we have this forum to discuss real sports. I may sneak in some Carolina stuff here in the future. The State/Carolina/Duke forums are a mess.

Some positive news - congrats to the 10 Panthers who made the Pro Bowl, especially the first-timers.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

I can't believe this is going to be Thomas Davis first pro bowl I'm happy for him. It seems like he has played at a high level for so long it's good that he is finally getting the recognition that he deserves.

— Posted by carolinadreaming

I was surprised to see that it is his first. TD is rock solid and should have been selected before now, imo. Glad to see him get the recognition he deserves. Heck of an accomplishment given the 3 ACL tears.

Well the good thing in all of this is everyone is ok. The hit that Beckham put on Norman could have ended his career and his life.

The refs should have taken control of the game early when Norman threw Beckham to the ground. Norman should have got a unnecessary roughness penalty for that.

Other than that Norman did what many good corners do which is play physical and talk trash to get inside an opponents head. It's been reported that Odell Beckham is one of the biggest trash talkers in the league. I think him dropping that initial touchdown pass and then going up against a good corner who talks just as much trash got to him and caused him to snap.

The stuff that happened before the game the baseball bat, threats etc is nothing new in the game of football and Odell has experienced it many times before especially playing for a college like LSU where he had to go play in Alabama, Mississippi etc

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Not sure how many former SEC players came at him waving a bat, but agree with the rest of your assessment. Have to admit, it was one of the biggest cheap shots I've ever seen. No place for an unexpected ear hole shot in the NFL. From what I've read, the refs approached the coaches at some point during the game. Not sure why since it's their job to keep things from spinning out of control. The refs are there to enforce the rules, not cater to coaches/players and hope it works out. Did see where bats have now been banned.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

I wasn't referring to specifically waving a bat but making threats to end his career or injure him with a legal/illegal hit. Ask any former football player high school, college, nfl etc and they will tell you a lot of threats are made before and during a game by other players.

I watched the game and they mentioned during the live game that the refs warned both teams and you could see after that both Cam Newton and Luke Kuechly were talking with Norman on the bench to try to get him to calm down and he did for the the most part after that.

No leaders on the Giants spoke to Odell and I think that's part of the reason he continued with his behavior. Coughlin whose supposedly this hard nosed coach that's all about discipline turned his head and Eli Manning is not considered an outspoken leader so he did nothing as well.

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Gotcha, CD! Agree with ya....some football players are known for popping off at the mouth. Just a part of the game. Nice to see Luke & Cam do what leaders are supposed to do.

Some positive news - congrats to the 10 Panthers who made the Pro Bowl, especially the first-timers.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

I can't believe this is going to be Thomas Davis first pro bowl I'm happy for him. It seems like he has played at a high level for so long it's good that he is finally getting the recognition that he deserves.

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Agree about Thomas Davis! So deserving of the invite to the Pro Bowl.

This is a very special Panthers team, this kind of chemistry is rare, so I'm really hoping it's their year to win it all. I don't think we'll see the same roster next year due to free agency and Kalil and Davis aren't getting any younger.

Some positive news - congrats to the 10 Panthers who made the Pro Bowl, especially the first-timers.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

I can't believe this is going to be Thomas Davis first pro bowl I'm happy for him. It seems like he has played at a high level for so long it's good that he is finally getting the recognition that he deserves.

Well the good thing in all of this is everyone is ok. The hit that Beckham put on Norman could have ended his career and his life.

The refs should have taken control of the game early when Norman threw Beckham to the ground. Norman should have got a unnecessary roughness penalty for that.

Other than that Norman did what many good corners do which is play physical and talk trash to get inside an opponents head. It's been reported that Odell Beckham is one of the biggest trash talkers in the league. I think him dropping that initial touchdown pass and then going up against a good corner who talks just as much trash got to him and caused him to snap.

The stuff that happened before the game the baseball bat, threats etc is nothing new in the game of football and Odell has experienced it many times before especially playing for a college like LSU where he had to go play in Alabama, Mississippi etc

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Not sure how many former SEC players came at him waving a bat, but agree with the rest of your assessment. Have to admit, it was one of the biggest cheap shots I've ever seen. No place for an unexpected ear hole shot in the NFL. From what I've read, the refs approached the coaches at some point during the game. Not sure why since it's their job to keep things from spinning out of control. The refs are there to enforce the rules, not cater to coaches/players and hope it works out. Did see where bats have now been banned.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

I wasn't referring to specifically waving a bat but making threats to end his career or injure him with a legal/illegal hit. Ask any former football player high school, college, nfl etc and they will tell you a lot of threats are made before and during a game by other players.

I watched the game and they mentioned during the live game that the refs warned both teams and you could see after that both Cam Newton and Luke Kuechly were talking with Norman on the bench to try to get him to calm down and he did for the the most part after that.

No leaders on the Giants spoke to Odell and I think that's part of the reason he continued with his behavior. Coughlin whose supposedly this hard nosed coach that's all about discipline turned his head and Eli Manning is not considered an outspoken leader so he did nothing as well.

Well the good thing in all of this is everyone is ok. The hit that Beckham put on Norman could have ended his career and his life.

The refs should have taken control of the game early when Norman threw Beckham to the ground. Norman should have got a unnecessary roughness penalty for that.

Other than that Norman did what many good corners do which is play physical and talk trash to get inside an opponents head. It's been reported that Odell Beckham is one of the biggest trash talkers in the league. I think him dropping that initial touchdown pass and then going up against a good corner who talks just as much trash got to him and caused him to snap.

The stuff that happened before the game the baseball bat, threats etc is nothing new in the game of football and Odell has experienced it many times before especially playing for a college like LSU where he had to go play in Alabama, Mississippi etc

— Posted by carolinadreaming

Not sure how many former SEC players came at him waving a bat, but agree with the rest of your assessment. Have to admit, it was one of the biggest cheap shots I've ever seen. No place for an unexpected ear hole shot in the NFL. From what I've read, the refs approached the coaches at some point during the game. Not sure why since it's their job to keep things from spinning out of control. The refs are there to enforce the rules, not cater to coaches/players and hope it works out. Did see where bats have now been banned.

Well the good thing in all of this is everyone is ok. The hit that Beckham put on Norman could have ended his career and his life.

The refs should have taken control of the game early when Norman threw Beckham to the ground. Norman should have got a unnecessary roughness penalty for that.

Other than that Norman did what many good corners do which is play physical and talk trash to get inside an opponents head. It's been reported that Odell Beckham is one of the biggest trash talkers in the league. I think him dropping that initial touchdown pass and then going up against a good corner who talks just as much trash got to him and caused him to snap.

The stuff that happened before the game the baseball bat, threats etc is nothing new in the game of football and Odell has experienced it many times before especially playing for a college like LSU where he had to go play in Alabama, Mississippi etc

Who said Beckham 'really' felt threatened, aside from Beckham & the Giants? Are you really trying to justify having a player walk around with a bat while pointing it at others, even if he doesn't know how to swing it? Hilarious! Surprised to see a guy like you downplaying slurs. Figured you'd be all over that. Wait a second....doesn't fit the agenda.

Kept Norman under control? Yep....glad to see the Panthers get Norman under control during Week 15, maintain their focus, etc., and close with an uneventful, lopsided win over the Giants. lol

Speaking of drama, that's in response to all of the absurd behavior I see taking place around the league. Bottom line.....most of the fans I know could care less about the drama created by certain players on any given Sunday. Not gonna support stupid behavior today, tomorrow, or ever. Besides, if I want to see some serious dancing, I'll go to Pure Gold.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

The bat really isn't a big deal. You have nearly 60 big, bad football players on each sideline who all understand that if a weapon is used to fight, the person with the weapon will be lucky to make it out alive. Bottom line, no one is going to swing that bat.

You are adamant about wins/losses being the ultimate measuring stick; so, I thought you would be behind the idea that if you're the only undefeated team in week 15 you get a pass on questionable things like the bat.

Slurs? I need a little more than heresay from a guy who throws puches on the field and doubles back and torpedoes a defenseless player.

Dancing? Lighten up! It's benign. I don't see anyone doing it mid-play, so what is it hurting other than your want to maintain tradition?

— Posted by mittnfriends

Tell it to the Giants! It's stupid to bring a bat on the field and make it a point to wave it at opposing players as you approach them.

Wins and losses ARE the ultimate measuring stick. And no, a dude walking around with a bat while pointing it at the opposition does not get a pass.

About the 'slurs' thing....it has been reported by certain individuals who are a little closer to the situation than you & me. Think I'll go with their take on this since they were there.

Lighten up? Why would I want to do that? Can't remember the last time I heard dudes exclaim, "Can't wait to see ol' Cam dance in the end zone. Love seeing me some Cam dance. Love seeing me some Toll Booth dance. Dance the night away, boys, and forget the football. Let's dance! Dance! Dance! Dance! Show me some dancing! Play me some Leo Sayer!"

I'm only interested in wins/losses, titles, stats, and the natural emotions involved. The rest belongs in a circus.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

No, you don't hear people say that. The dancing is but a fraction of a fraction of a fraction of what goes on during an NFL game. It, nearly every time, happens after the whistle has blown. It is an expression of one's joy and is entertaining for countless number of fans. You can be all about the X's and O's, mental and physical toughness, etc. and still embrace the dancing.

Your gripe over the non-issue is antiquated. Perhaps my response(s) are equally pointless.

Slurs - B, I'm not trying to be argumentative here - do you really think hurled slurs are out of the ordinary for an NFL game? Not to mention, your same sources would be lying if they said Odell isn't a weekly perpetrator of slur-slinging.

— Posted by mittnfriends

What about the joy of winning consistently versus the "flash in the pan" routine? Looks like "me me me" stuff for the most part. No offense, Mitt, but I would prefer to see my fav. players/team focused on winning and winning often....embracing the big picture (SB) versus the numerous little V-dances after every score.

Antiquated gripe? Nope...I've seen many situations where players were engaging in their little dances while they were getting hammered, or having a bad season as a team. Looks very foolish at times and shows a total lack of understanding. It's called keeping your eye on the prize. If it's something quick that doesn't last the length of a commercial, it's not as annoying.

I'm certain slurs are tossed around often during an NFL game. My comments aren't meant to defend Beckham, just to point out that #24 is hardly innocent in this. Takes discipline/focus to be a 'consistent' winner.

Who said Beckham 'really' felt threatened, aside from Beckham & the Giants? Are you really trying to justify having a player walk around with a bat while pointing it at others, even if he doesn't know how to swing it? Hilarious! Surprised to see a guy like you downplaying slurs. Figured you'd be all over that. Wait a second....doesn't fit the agenda.

Kept Norman under control? Yep....glad to see the Panthers get Norman under control during Week 15, maintain their focus, etc., and close with an uneventful, lopsided win over the Giants. lol

Speaking of drama, that's in response to all of the absurd behavior I see taking place around the league. Bottom line.....most of the fans I know could care less about the drama created by certain players on any given Sunday. Not gonna support stupid behavior today, tomorrow, or ever. Besides, if I want to see some serious dancing, I'll go to Pure Gold.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

The bat really isn't a big deal. You have nearly 60 big, bad football players on each sideline who all understand that if a weapon is used to fight, the person with the weapon will be lucky to make it out alive. Bottom line, no one is going to swing that bat.

You are adamant about wins/losses being the ultimate measuring stick; so, I thought you would be behind the idea that if you're the only undefeated team in week 15 you get a pass on questionable things like the bat.

Slurs? I need a little more than heresay from a guy who throws puches on the field and doubles back and torpedoes a defenseless player.

Dancing? Lighten up! It's benign. I don't see anyone doing it mid-play, so what is it hurting other than your want to maintain tradition?

— Posted by mittnfriends

Tell it to the Giants! It's stupid to bring a bat on the field and make it a point to wave it at opposing players as you approach them.

Wins and losses ARE the ultimate measuring stick. And no, a dude walking around with a bat while pointing it at the opposition does not get a pass.

About the 'slurs' thing....it has been reported by certain individuals who are a little closer to the situation than you & me. Think I'll go with their take on this since they were there.

Lighten up? Why would I want to do that? Can't remember the last time I heard dudes exclaim, "Can't wait to see ol' Cam dance in the end zone. Love seeing me some Cam dance. Love seeing me some Toll Booth dance. Dance the night away, boys, and forget the football. Let's dance! Dance! Dance! Dance! Show me some dancing! Play me some Leo Sayer!"

I'm only interested in wins/losses, titles, stats, and the natural emotions involved. The rest belongs in a circus.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

No, you don't hear people say that. The dancing is but a fraction of a fraction of a fraction of what goes on during an NFL game. It, nearly every time, happens after the whistle has blown. It is an expression of one's joy and is entertaining for countless number of fans. You can be all about the X's and O's, mental and physical toughness, etc. and still embrace the dancing.

Your gripe over the non-issue is antiquated. Perhaps my response(s) are equally pointless.

Slurs - B, I'm not trying to be argumentative here - do you really think hurled slurs are out of the ordinary for an NFL game? Not to mention, your same sources would be lying if they said Odell isn't a weekly perpetrator of slur-slinging.

Who said Beckham 'really' felt threatened, aside from Beckham & the Giants? Are you really trying to justify having a player walk around with a bat while pointing it at others, even if he doesn't know how to swing it? Hilarious! Surprised to see a guy like you downplaying slurs. Figured you'd be all over that. Wait a second....doesn't fit the agenda.

Kept Norman under control? Yep....glad to see the Panthers get Norman under control during Week 15, maintain their focus, etc., and close with an uneventful, lopsided win over the Giants. lol

Speaking of drama, that's in response to all of the absurd behavior I see taking place around the league. Bottom line.....most of the fans I know could care less about the drama created by certain players on any given Sunday. Not gonna support stupid behavior today, tomorrow, or ever. Besides, if I want to see some serious dancing, I'll go to Pure Gold.

— Posted by bishopdiamond5

The bat really isn't a big deal. You have nearly 60 big, bad football players on each sideline who all understand that if a weapon is used to fight, the person with the weapon will be lucky to make it out alive. Bottom line, no one is going to swing that bat.

You are adamant about wins/losses being the ultimate measuring stick; so, I thought you would be behind the idea that if you're the only undefeated team in week 15 you get a pass on questionable things like the bat.

Slurs? I need a little more than heresay from a guy who throws puches on the field and doubles back and torpedoes a defenseless player.

Dancing? Lighten up! It's benign. I don't see anyone doing it mid-play, so what is it hurting other than your want to maintain tradition?

— Posted by mittnfriends

Tell it to the Giants! It's stupid to bring a bat on the field and make it a point to wave it at opposing players as you approach them.

Wins and losses ARE the ultimate measuring stick. And no, a dude walking around with a bat while pointing it at the opposition does not get a pass.

About the 'slurs' thing....it has been reported by certain individuals who are a little closer to the situation than you & me. Think I'll go with their take on this since they were there.

Lighten up? Why would I want to do that? Can't remember the last time I heard dudes exclaim, "Can't wait to see ol' Cam dance in the end zone. Love seeing me some Cam dance. Love seeing me some Toll Booth dance. Dance the night away, boys, and forget the football. Let's dance! Dance! Dance! Dance! Show me some dancing! Play me some Leo Sayer!"

I'm only interested in wins/losses, titles, stats, and the natural emotions involved. The rest belongs in a circus.

Though the game was downright silly, between the Odell drama and the squandered 28 point lead; I think it served as a invaluable teaching moment.

How about that guy, Cam Newton, though? He put up another MVP-caliber performance. His 1,000+ yard rusher was inactive, but it didn't matter; he racked up 100 yards by himself in the midst of throwing for 340 and 5 TDs. Steadily breaking records. For as great as Palmer, Brady and Wilson are playing; they still don't stack up to what Cam is doing.

— Posted by mittnfriends

It is a shame that all the talk has been about the shenanigans that took place during the game, and very little talk about Cam's performance. A few talking heads have at least admitted Cam is in the lead for MVP (and some of those talking heads used to argue that Cam's numbers weren't "good enough" to be the MVP.

I think Cam handled the whole situation very well. Erin Andrews did her best to get Cam to comment about the Beckman/Norman situation, but all Cam did was smile, and he refrained from saying anything inflammatory. He didn't take the bait at all, and good for him!

Lost respect for Coughlin. He admitted he left him in because of a win. He could have really injured himself and Norman. Did anyone see where he put his fingers in Normans mouth? I think back in the old schools days he might have been minus a couple.Cam said I got this before the last drive. MVP!! Keep Pounding Panthers!

Did anyone watch the Steelers/Broncos? Defense played Steel Curtain shut out defense in the second half. AB, AB, AB. Pay the man Mr. Rooney!!!

— Posted by Toddler10-21

I lost respect for Coughlin when he said he "wasn't aware that Beckham had three personal fouls". NOT AWARE?? He's a micro-manager, and how could he miss the 15-yard "gifts" Beckham kept giving the Panthers? Coughlin should take ownership for his punk player.

I understand why he'd leave Beckman in the game. It's the Ref's job to bounce him, and they didn't even flag all of his hits on Norman, let alone toss him.

I blame Beckman, and the Refs the most, and then Coughlin for not bothering to even speak to Beckman himself - he had his receivers coach do that.

At the end of the day, this game made the Giants and the NFL look very bad. But here we are all talking about it, so maybe they know what they're doing.